New Zealand
Routine Arming of Police Would Be Big Step, Says New Zealand PM
Radio New Zealand
17 June 2008
Arming police patrols as a matter of routine would be a significant development for New Zealand, says Prime Minister Helen Clark. A proposal for armed patrols in Auckland has been given extra impetus after the fatal shooting of a Manurewa liquor store owner on 7 June. The proposal could result in officers carrying Glock pistols and Bushmaster rifles. Miss Clark says police are not advocating that street patrols be routinely... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Plan for Routine NZ Police Patrol to Carry Guns 'Hard to Accept' - MP
New Zealand Herald / NewsTalk ZB
15 June 2008
New Zealand First MP Ron Mark is at a loss to understand plans for permanently armed units on the streets of South Auckland. The Police Commissioner will consider a proposed six-month trial of the 24-hour patrols in August. Police say the idea comes from a review of their effectiveness at call-outs where firearms are involved. Officers would be equipped with shotguns, Glock pistols and medium-range Taser stun guns. ... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Unarmed Cops Remain 'Cornerstone of New Zealand Policing Model'
TVNZ One News
14 June 2008
Armed police units may be patrolling some of New Zealand's most dangerous streets by the middle of next year. A spate of violent crime has forced police to reconsider its policy of being generally unarmed. Designed to stop people in their tracks, police are considering using tasers and increasing the use of existing firearms to hit back at criminals on high risk Auckland streets. Police have been looking at alternative... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Fearful New Zealand Shop Owners Push for Guns After Robbery Killing
ABC News (Australia)
10 June 2008
The death of an Indian shop owner during an armed robbery in Auckland has led to a call for shop owners to carry guns. Thirty-year-old father of three Navtej Sing had his hands in the air when he was shot by one of three men robbing his South Auckland shop. He died yesterday in hospital. Gang violence has escalated in the area and Indian shop owners say they are an easy target, and some want to be allowed to have... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Big Jump in Number of Newcomers Seeking Gun Licence in New Zealand
New Zealand Herald
29 May 2008
Aspiring Asian gun-owners, growing numbers of recreational hunters and the rise of the lifestyle block are being credited for an increase in the number of people seeking gun licences. A memo to police shows the number of first-time applicants for firearms licences almost doubled in six years, from 4654 in 2001 to 8370 last year. Mike Spray of the Mountain Safety Council -- which runs firearms training and lectures for licensees... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand Police Choose US-made Assault Rifles as Weapon of Choice
New Zealand Herald
26 May 2008
Combat rifles are the weapons of choice for police dealing with situations involving firearms. Police say Bushmaster rifles, already used by armed offenders squad members, have greater accuracy than the Glock pistols now used. Acting Assistant Commissioner Gavin Jones said the Glock pistol would still be carried, but the Bushmaster would be the preferred weapon for armed incidents. ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Combat Rifle Becomes Preferred Weapon for New Zealand Police Callouts
Radio New Zealand
24 May 2008
Police officers are more likely to use combat rifles in dealing with armed offenders instead of their traditional sidearms, under new training policies. The police say Bushmaster rifles, which are already used by members of Armed Offenders Squads, have greater accuracy than the Glock pistols they use at present. From July, nationwide training will ensure all officers are competent in using the rifle. The Acting... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Police Glock Pistols Go Missing After Being Couriered to Police Armoury
New Zealand Herald
8 March 2008
Two police pistols have gone missing while being couriered from north of Auckland to Wellington. The police-issue Glock pistols -- sent from Warkworth station in December -- have not yet reached the police armoury in Wellington. "We can't jump to conclusions here. All we can really say is they are missing," said Inspector Tom Ireland, police operations and projects manager. "Whether they have been misplaced or... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand Police Say Black Market for Guns is 'Miniscule, Not a Problem'
NewsTalkZB (Auckland)
31 January 2008
Police say many illegal firearms are being rented or borrowed from secret stockpiles but they believe the black market for guns is miniscule and not a problem. Two men have been charged with unlawful possession of a firearm following Tuesday night's gun fight which broke out when a gang of armed youths turned up to a tinny house on Othello Drive, in the Auckland suburb of Flat Bush. Another two men are recovering in hospital from... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealanders' Growing Interest in Guns and Shooting 'Healthy,' Say Police
Dominion Post (Wellington)
16 January 2008
More New Zealanders are arming themselves with firearms licences for sport, recreation and pest control, showing what police believe is a healthy attitude toward gun use. Police figures issued to The Dominion Post under the Official Information Act show that about 16,000 people got firearms licences for the first time in the past two years -- up from 5320 in 2002. Police national manager of firearms licensing and vetting... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Licensed Gun Collector Ran Black Market Gun Trade, Say NZ Police
TVNZ News
19 December 2007
A Coromandel gun collector is to stand trial for allegedly running a black market gun operation. John Mabey claimed more than 120 weapons were stolen from his Coromandel home. He says he was burgled in July and burglars took 113 pistols, a couple of semi-automatic rifles and half a dozen machine guns. But police investigating the break-in suspected a scam. In a transcript of a police interview, a detective tells... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand Gun Dealer Charged Over Fight with Airport Customs Officer
Sunday News (New Zealand)
16 December 2007
New Zealand's biggest firearms dealer has been charged with assaulting a Customs officer after a fracas at Auckland International Airport. Christchurch gun shop owner David Tipple was involved in the altercation in July, after his laptop was seized by Customs officials as he was returning from a business trip in Europe. Police allege he assaulted the officer while trying to get the computer back. But Tipple last... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Another Glock Pistol Turns Up from NZ Firearm Collector's 121 'Stolen' Guns
New Zealand Herald / NZPA
4 December 2007
Police say they have recovered another pistol from a large collection of guns allegedly sold by a Coromandel collector on the black market. The Glock automatic pistol was found in a bag by a man who stopped his car on State Highway 25, near Thames on Friday. A sawn-off shotgun was found nearby. "Operation Might" head Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Nicholls said the pistol was one of 121 restricted weapons police allege... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Navy Officer, Licensed Collector 'Conspired to Sell' Stolen Navy Guns
Sunday Star Times (New Zealand)
4 November 2007
A senior Navy officer has been charged with conspiring to sell two military style semi-automatic rifles to undercover police. The man's home was raided in December as part of a major police operation which involved the seizure of at least 800 weapons from collectors and dealers in the Waikato and Auckland. More than 140 items were seized from the man's house. Most were firearms and ammunition he was licensed to... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Police Raids on Gun Collectors Throw Spotlight on Troubled Fraternity
Waikato Times
20 October 2007
A Hamilton gun enthusiast strokes the handle of his Smith and Wesson 44 calibre pistol. The gun looks just like something out of an old cowboy film and dates to the pre-1900 American wild west days. How many hands have held this gun over all those years? Images of cowboys -- maybe even gunfighters -- come to mind. He passes it to the Waikato Times reporter to hold before carefully placing it back in its sturdy lockup -- an ex-bank safe.... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
116 Handguns, Machine Guns Still Missing in 'Theft' from Licensed Collector
New Zealand Herald / NZPA
18 October 2007
Most of the large arsenal of weapons missing from a Coromandel gun collector's safe have still not been found. Police said yesterday no one offered to return the guns under an amnesty that would have allowed them to do so without being charged. They believe the guns are still in the hands of criminals. Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Nicholls of Hamilton said it was not known if any of the weapons recovered during... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Handgun Seized in NZ Drug Bust May Be One of 121 Guns Lost by Collector
Waikato Times (Hamilton)
9 October 2007
A gun found on a man arrested at a Hamilton motel could be linked to a collection from a Hot Water Beach property. The man, 29, was arrested at an Ulster St motel by the Armed Offender Squad on Sunday morning. Police said they found an automatic pistol, ammunition, methamphetamine and several syringes at the motel. The man appeared in the Hamilton District Court yesterday charged with unlawful possession of a firearm and... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Gun Dealer Claims Illegal Guns 'From Offshore,' Not From Legit Owners
NZCity / NewsTalk ZB
9 October 2007
A gun dealer is adamant the legitimate firearms community is staying well away from the black market trade. Police found an automatic pistol, ammunition, drugs and a syringe when they arrested a man at a Hamilton motel, raising further concerns about the link between the drugs trade and illegal firearms. South Island gun dealer Rod Woods says he shares the concerns of police but he says the guns are being imported from... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Licensed NZ Gun Collector Denies Lying to Police in 'Theft' of 121 Firearms
New Zealand Herald
8 October 2007
Concerns about guns being sold on the black market ending up in criminal hands have been reinforced after the armed offenders squad found an automatic pistol, ammunition and methamphetamine in a motel unit. Police arrested a 29 year-old man at the Hamilton Hotel at about 1.30am this morning. The man is a known associate of a fugitive arrested last month in Auckland who was found with two pistols -- a Glock and a Beretta.... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Police Raids on Licensed Gun Collectors Discover 1 in 5 Guns 'Illegal'
New Zealand Herald
5 October 2007
As police try to track up to 120 high-powered, military style weapons which vanished from a Coromandel property, they are reluctantly preparing to give back 200 similar firearms and 600,000 rounds of ammunition to their owner. This is amid increasing concerns among Waikato police about the number of illegal weapons on the black market, known to be falling into the hands of criminals and gangsters. Police seized about 230... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Licensed NZ Gun Collector 'Illegally Sold' 121 Pistols, Machine Guns to Crims
New Zealand Press Association
2 October 2007
A Coromandel gun collector was remanded on bail after appearing in court today on charges of possessing and supplying weapons and making a false complaint. John Noel Mabey, 43, told police last month that over 100 weapons, including pistols, machine guns and an inoperable rocket launcher, were stolen from his Hot Water Beach home in July. Mabey's collectors licence was revoked in August. Police investigated and... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand Man Made Mistake, Killed Himself With 'Unloaded' Hand Gun
Dominion Post (Wellington)
17 September 2007
Callan Hogg thought a semi-automatic pistol was unloaded when he shot himself in the head in front of a friend, the Coroners Court has heard. The shooting happened about 6.30am at a Palm Ave, Lyall Bay, Wellington, property on May 14, 2006. Coroner Gerry Evans ruled that Mr Hogg died by the single self-inflicted gunshot wound, but stressed the 29-year-old did not intend to take his own life. Friend Ricky Popple,... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Gun Collector Charged Over 'Theft' of 121 Handguns, Submachine Guns
News City / NewsTalkZB
13 September 2007
A Coromandel Peninsula gun collector who reported more than 120 guns had been stolen from his home near Hot Water Beach has been charged with making a false statement to police. The weapons include 113 pistols, two military style semi-automatic rifles and six submachine guns. The collector has been arrested, and is also facing firearms charges, after what police describe as extensive enquiries with the assistance of forensic... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Licensed NZ Gun Collector, Porn Baron's Trial Features Pistols, Dead Sheep
Dominion Post (Wellington)
3 September 2007
Porn baron and Auckland mayoral candidate Steve Crow is to go to trial on firearms charges, after a judge refused to guarantee he would be let off without a conviction. The 50-year-old adult entertainment businessman allegedly fired two pistols while visiting a farm at Whenuapai, West Auckland, in August last year. He was arrested three days before last year's Boobs on Bikes parade through Auckland City to promote his upcoming... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Gun Shop Owner Ecstatic at Police Decision to Drop Shooting Charges
New Zealand Herald / NZPA
5 July 2007
An Auckland gunshop director is "ecstatic" over a decision by police not to pursue a charge against him of unlawful gun possession, bringing to an end a year-long ordeal. Greg Carvell shot an intruder in his Penrose gunshop in July last year as the man threatened to kill him and a fellow gunshop worker with a metre-long machete. The intruder, Ricky Beckham, survived the shooting and was jailed for two years and nine months.... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Another Man Visits New Zealand Gun Shop Asking to Be Shot Dead
TVNZ ONE News
2 July 2007
A knife-wielding intruder has been arrested after storming the same Auckland gun shop where a man was shot almost a year ago. Witnesses say the man was suicidal and wanted to be shot, but instead police pepper sprayed the intruder, and when that did not work, used a taser gun. Last year another man, Ricky Beckham, entered the store armed with a machete. He was shot in the stomach by gun store co-owner Greg Carvell. Beckham... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Father Shot Daughter in Head During Gun Safety Lesson for Son
New Zealand Press Association
27 June 2007
A Napier father who accidentally fired a .22-calibre slug into his seven-year-old daughter's skull was trying to scare his son from touching the firearm, Napier District Court was told today. The 30-year-old man, who has interim name suppression, was convicted of discharging a firearm causing injury and remanded until July 20 for sentencing by Judge Richard Watson. Police prosecutor Terry Singh said the man was at home... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Gun Collector Sues Police to Return His Licence, 700 Guns 'And My Life'
TVNZ News
21 June 2007
An Auckland gun collector is taking police to court for suspending his firearms licence and seizing 700 registered guns. Police say the armoury was taken after bugged phone conversations involving Waikato gang houses. But Martin Bath insists he has no gang connections and the seizure is hurting his business. If he had seen it in the movies he wouldn't believe it. A few rubber stunt props are all that's left of... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Loaded Guns Hidden Behind Shop Counters 'Not the Way for New Zealand'
Nelson Mail, Editorial
11 June 2007
In the minds of many Kiwis, Greg Carvell should be handed a gong in the next honours list, the Nelson Mail said in an editorial on Monday. He is the man who kept a Colt .45 pistol in the desk of his Auckland gunshop and, when confronted by a machete-wielding man a year ago, used it. The would-be robber, shot in the stomach, made a full recovery and is serving nearly three years for threatening to kill and demanding guns from the... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Gun Shop Owner Should Not Have Faced Court for Shooting Robber
Hawke's Bay Today, Editorial
8 June 2007
Police say the dismissal of firearms charges against an Auckland gunshop owner who shot a machete-wielding robber last July shouldn't be seen as "an invitation to use weapons against robbers". However, the decision by the two JPs to throw out the charge of illegal possession of a pistol against Greg Carvell -- they ruled the Crown failed to prove a prima facie case -- does reaffirm the right to use reasonable force in self defence.... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand Gun Shop Owner Walks Free After Shooting Machete Robber
New Zealand Herald / NZPA
7 June 2007
The gunshop worker who shot an intruder threatening to kill him with a large machete walked from court a free man today. Greg Carvell pulled a .45 calibre pistol from its hiding place under a desk last July and fired one shot at Ricky Beckham in his gunshop in the south Auckland suburb of Penrose. A depositions hearing was told Beckham waved a metre-long machete over his head and demanded guns as he advanced on Mr Carvell... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand Soldier Stole Army Pistol, Sold it to Gang Member
Manawatu Standard (Palmerston North)
23 May 2007
A Linton soldier who stole a pistol from the military camp's armoury and sold it to a Black Power member has been imprisoned for 90 days and booted out of the Army. Gunner Levi Shane Haye, 19, pleaded guilty yesterday at a Court Martial to stealing the pistol, grinding off its serial number and selling it to Dannevirke man Michael Fiti for $1000. When police and MPs searched Fiti's house they found the gun hidden inside... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand Study Shows Growing Number of Airgun Injuries to Children
New Zealand Herald
11 May 2007
Surgeons are urging a review of gun control in New Zealand as they treat a growing number of children with injuries inflicted by firearms. Their greatest concern is air rifles, which can be bought by anyone over 18 without a licence or any other regulation, yet account for about 80 per cent of child injuries. Most injuries are inflicted in Greater Auckland. But police say the existing law requires children using... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Not Easy to Get a Glock in NZ, But Vetting Can't Stop Black Market Guns
New Zealand Herald
21 April 2007
New Zealand gun laws would have intercepted someone as disturbed as the Virginia Tech killer -- but the black market is awash with weapons. In Virginia, Cho Seung-Hui went to a gun shop, paid $780 and had a Glock semi-automatic pistol within 20 minutes. In New Zealand, it would have taken nine months and proof that the buyer was a collector or genuinely belonged to a gun club. Dealer Greg Carvell of Small Arms... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand Gun Lobby Calls for Tighter Laws to Control Airguns
New Zealand Herald
7 April 2007
Gun laws should be tightened to prevent weapons getting into the hands of people whose only knowledge of firearms is "what they've seen on TV", says the Council of Licensed Firearms Owners. Council chairman John Howat wants law changes after a 14-year-old boy was struck on the side of his head by an air rifle pellet at Waitangi. He was treated in the emergency department of Whangarei Hospital on Thursday and discharged... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand Provincial Airline Passenger Carries Rifle on Plane
Sydney Morning Herald / NZPA
19 March 2007
Security measures on provincial airline routes are under the spotlight again after a passenger managed to carry a rifle on board a flight from New Plymouth and Auckland. The man was only pulled aside after he landed in Auckland and was boarding another flight to Kerikeri. He told authorities he had been allowed to carry the rifle on the earlier flight because the gun was broken. Civil Aviation Authority spokesman... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Govt Budgets $10,000 pa to Pay Gun Owners for Confiscated Firearms
Dominion Post (Wellington)
23 January 2007
Taxpayers have paid nearly $12,000 in compensation to people no longer 'fit and proper' to own guns in the past five years. The Crown compensated gun owners for weapons seized after their licence was revoked. Police can also seize guns from a licensed dealer, and these too would be compensated. No compensation is paid when illegal weapons are seized. Gun control campaigner Philip Alpers, an adjunct associate public... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand Web Auction Site Sells Guns and Flak Jackets, Bans Dildos
Truth (Auckland)
11 January 2007
Wanna buy a gun? Easy. Like a new vibrator? Sorry, that's restricted! This is the curious state of affairs for potential buyers shopping at TradeMe, the country's biggest internet auction site. Although vibrators and dildos are for pleasure and guns are for killing, sex toys are only sold in the restricted section. Guns, accessories and other lethal weapons can be viewed -- and in many cases bought -- by virtually... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Green Party Decries Unusual Provincial Police Decision to Carry Guns
New Zealand Press Association
6 January 2007
The decision to arm Napier detectives with pistols for the three days leading up to Christmas has been criticised by the Green Party -- but police say they would wear sidearms "at any time" if the circumstances required it. The Green Party said yesterday that wearing sidearms openly as a deterrent went against the philosophy of having an unarmed police force. But Inspector Kevin Kalff of Napier disagreed, saying that, since... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Boy Fights for Life After Friend Fired Airgun Pellet, Pierced Eye, Brain
NewsTalk ZB
2 January 2007
A 13-year-old Feilding boy is fighting for his life in Wellington Hospital, after he was accidentally shot with an airgun by his friend. A pellet went straight through the boy's eye and lodged in his brain when the pair were playing with a point-two-two calibre air rifle in a garage in Feilding. Wellington Hospital says the boy is in a critical condition in the Intensive Care Unit. As police investigate, firearms lobbyist... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Gang Manhunt Sparked Raids of 55 New Zealand Gun Dealers, Collectors
New Zealand Herald
22 December 2006
A big manhunt in Port Waikato last year appears to have sparked the investigation into military weapon imports that Hamilton police are dubbing Operation Daisy. More than 500 high-powered guns have been seized from the premises of dealers, collectors and gangs nationwide in the past two days. One of the six men arrested so far (police promise more arrests) appeared in the Hamilton District Court on Monday. He was... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Illegal Arms Trade Pure Speculation, Says New Zealand Gun Lobby Group
Radio New Zealand
22 December 2006
A gun lobby group says there is no crime ring of collectors and dealers trading in firearms, despite a series of police raids this week. More than 500 military-style semi automatic and automatic weapons, pistols and machine guns were confiscated this week from 55 properties between Northland and Canterbury. Police said the seizures were the result of a six month investigation into an illegal weapon trade. Council... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Licensed Gun Dealer at Centre of New Zealand Weapons Inquiry in Court
Waikato Times (Hamilton)
22 December 2006
A Hamilton gun dealer at the centre of an illegal gun trading probe has appeared in court while police say more than 800 weapons have now been seized nationally in the Operation Daisy inquiry. Dale Jenner, 52, of Hamilton, appeared before a court registrar in the Hamilton District Court on Wednesday on two charges of unlawful possession of firearms, notably an AK47 assault rifle and a semi automatic Saiga shotgun. Jenner... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Gun Dealers Blame 'Rogue' Licensed Gun Seller for Police Raids
Dominion Post (Wellington)
22 December 2006
Gun dealers believe a single rogue operator may have sparked police raids on dealers and collectors nationwide that uncovered a cache of weapons including machine guns. Police targeting illegal traders seized 500 weapons -- including military automatics and semi-automatics -- in raids on 55 premises this week. Some weapons are believed to have been imported illegally, and police fear they were destined for criminals. Six... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Police Raids on Gun Collectors, Dealers: Tally Up to 1,041 Firearms
Radio New Zealand
22 December 2006
Additional firearms have been seized during police raids on unregistered and restricted weapons. A total of 1,041 military-style semi-automatic and automatic weapons, pistols and machine guns were confiscated this week from 55 properties between North Auckland and Canterbury. The largest number of firearms seized from one person was 562. Police also had to ask for help to deal with hand grenades and home-made land... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Only a Standard NZ Firearms Licence Needed for Military-Style Rifle
New Zealand Herald
22 December 2006
It looks and sounds like a seriously high-powered firearm -- the Saiga AK47 semi-automatic listed for sale on Trade Me. Hundreds of dollars have been bid for the Russian hunting rifle, described by local gunshops as a military-style rifle, which fires off five rounds at the squeeze of the trigger. The seller says the new owner will need just a standard firearms licence to secure the deal. The state of the country's... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Guns Seized from Licensed NZ Collectors, Dealers 'Destined for Gangs'
NewsTalk ZB (Auckland)
21 December 2006
The firearms community suspects there are plenty more illegal guns in the country after hundreds were seized in dozens of raids on gun dealers and collectors. A major police investigation into the illegal sale of firearms has resulted in more than 500 military-style weapons seized from 55 properties across the country. It is believed many of the guns were destined for gangs. Council of Licensed Firearms Owners chairman... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand: More Arrests Likely After Seizure of 500 Illegal Firearms
Radio New Zealand
21 December 2006
Police say more arrests are likely after the seizure of more than 500 weapons on Wednesday in searches throughout the country. Unregistered restricted weapons were confiscated at 55 properties between Northland and Canterbury in an operation against illegal sales of weapons. The guns included military style semi automatic and automatic weapons, pistols and machine guns. 6 month investigation Detective... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Gun Group Says Registration Has Never Worked Anywhere in the World
Radio New Zealand
21 December 2006
A gun lobby group says licensing firearms is ineffective in controlling a black market. The Green Party is calling for tougher gun control legislation after more than 500 military-style semi-automatic and automatic weapons, pistols and machine guns were confiscated on Wednesday from 55 properties located between North Auckland and Canterbury. Police say the seizures were the result of a six-month investigation into an illegal... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Police Accused of Turning Blind Eye to 'Trustworthy' Gun Collectors
ONE News, TVNZ
21 December 2006
In the wake of a massive bust of illegal weapons, police are being accused of turning a blind eye to firearms owners. Six people were arrested and more than 500 guns seized following raids on properties from Northland to Christchurch. Police searched 55 properties to uncover the illegal weapons, some of which were allegedly imported and then sold for thousands of dollars on the black market. It follows a four-month... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Police Confiscate 500 Firearms from Licensed Gun Collectors, Dealers
Dominion Post (Wellington) / NZPA
21 December 2006
Police have seized hundreds of illegal high-powered firearms, including AK47s and Uzis, in a nationwide search of properties, including gang houses. The investigation originally centred on a firearms dealer in Waikato but spread across the country, resulting in half a dozen arrests so far. More than 500 firearms sold on the black market have been seized from 50 properties between Auckland and Christchurch. Among... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Police Raid 55 Licensed Gun Collectors, Dealers, Seize 500 Weapons
New Zealand Herald
21 December 2006
Police have seized hundreds of military-style firearms in raids on gun dealers and collectors. They believe the powerful automatic and semi-automatic weapons were destined for gangs and other criminals. Fifty-five gun dealers and collectors were raided in Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Hawkes Bay, Palmerston North, Wellington and Christchurch. More than 500 weapons were confiscated. Six people have... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Police Seize Heavy Machine Guns, 500 Weapons from Licensed Dealers
New Zealand Press Association
21 December 2006
Police have used Interpol to approach their counterparts in at least two other countries over the 500 firearms seized in nationwide raids yesterday on gun dealers and collectors. Some of the illegal weapons gathered in raids from North Auckland to Christchurch included.50 calibre heavy machine-guns, military style semi-automatics, sub-machine guns and semi-automatic pistols. Some were 9mm Glock pistols, the same issued... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Police Reveal 'Systemic Neglect' of Gun Law Enforcement in New Zealand
Radio New Zealand / Morning Report
21 December 2006
Host Geoff Robinson: Police are shocked by the number of firearms being held unlawfully in New Zealand. Over 500 military-style semi-automatic and automatic weapons, pistols and machineguns were confiscated from 55 properties between North Auckland and Canterbury yesterday. It's important to point out they weren't all being held unlawfully -- 20% of them were unlawful. Police say they'll now start the process of revoking... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Tighter Controls Needed on New Zealand Owners of Military Style Weapons
Green Party (NZ), Media release
21 December 2006
Green Party MP Keith Locke has called for greater controls on the owners of military style weapons, in the wake of the Police seizure of hundreds of military style weapons during raids on 55 gun collectors and dealers. "When even the Police express surprise at the extent of the seizures, this indicates serious flaws exist within the gun control system they administer," Mr Locke says. "The raids are very welcome, and hopefully... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Police Seize 500 Illegal Weapons from Licensed Collectors, Gun Dealers
Radio New Zealand
20 December 2006
Police investigating the illegal sale of restricted weapons have seized more than 500 firearms after searches of 55 properties throughout the North Island and Canterbury on Wednesday. Among the weapons found were military style semi automatic and fully automatic firearms, pistols and heavy machine guns. The police say that some of them were registered but others were not, so all were confiscated. They say some... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Police Officer Ran Personal Campaign to Discredit Gun Control Advocate
New Zealand Herald
16 December 2006
Gun control researcher Philip Alpers has accused the police officer in charge of firearms licensing of bias over a series of emails questioning his credentials. Inspector Joe Green has written to two universities where Mr Alpers has held posts, questioning the former TV journalist's roles. Mr Green has also written to Mr Alpers warning him he could be charged if he continued to use the title Harvard fellow. Mr... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand, Australia
Staunch Under Fire: Gun Control Advocate 'Replaced Ignorance With Light'
New Zealand Herald
16 December 2006
When they start screaming about what you're doing, you're on the right path, says tobacco researcher and Sydney University professor Simon Chapman. He should know. For years, he has fought cigarette companies, and in the past couple of years he has observed at close range another researcher facing an equally powerful lobby. Chapman works with Philip Alpers, the former New Zealand TV journalist who now works internationally in the... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand Soldiers to be Armed With Shotguns for Crowds, Peacekeeping
New Zealand Herald
21 November 2006
For the first time in more than 30 years New Zealand soldiers will carry shotguns which can be loaded with non-lethal ammunition to help quell civil unrest. The army said it would buy Benelli M3 tactical semi-automatic shotguns for soldiers on stability and security operations. The shotguns are capable of firing anything from bean bag to CS gas rounds to live rounds to deter rioters and other security threats. New... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand Gunshop Director to be Charged After Shooting Intruder
New Zealand Herald / NZPA
13 November 2006
An Auckland gunshop director who shot a machete-wielding intruder threatening to kill him is to face a firearms charge. Police said today they would charge the man with possessing a firearm without lawful, proper or sufficient purposes. They did not name him but it was believed to be Greg Carvell, 33, director of the Small Arms International gunshop in Penrose. Mr Carvell shot Ricky James Beckham in the stomach... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Kiwi Gun Collectors Hold Machine Guns, Rocket and Grenade Launchers
Dominion Post (Wellington)
7 November 2006
New Zealanders' appetite for heavy military-style guns has been revealed by gun-ownership statistics. In total, Kiwis are estimated to own about 1.1 million guns. There are 222,704 licensed firearm-owners. Figures issued by police reveal that nine lethal anti-tank projectors, 16 grenade launchers and thousands of machine guns and military-style semi-automatics are in public hands. The figures have been made public... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand Gun Count Brings Call for Ban on Military-style Weapons
Radio New Zealand
7 November 2006
Gun control advocates are calling for military-style semi-automatic weapons to be banned. It is estimated that New Zealanders own more than a million guns, some of them powerful enough to blow up a tank. Police figures show there are more than 8,000 military-style semi-automatic weapons in circulation, of the type gun control advocates say should be banned. They include rockets, anti-tank projectors, grenade launchers and... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Give Us Tasers or Give Us Guns, Says New Zealand Police Union
Dominion Post (Wellington)
26 October 2006
"Strong forces" want police to carry guns if the Taser stun gun trial proves unsuccessful, New Zealand's top police officer says. Police Commissioner Howard Broad conceded last night there was pressure for officers to be armed if the trial, being carried out in Wellington and Auckland, proved the 50,000-volt weapons were unsuitable for use. Mr Broad said the Taser trial needed to run its course and then be fully evaluated... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand Son Spared Jail After Aiming at Family Car, Killing His Father
Northern Advocate (Whangarei)
25 October 2006
Pleas by a mother and brother to spare a Northland teenager from jail after he shot dead his father were answered yesterday. Colin Adams -- who accidentally killed his father, Brian, 46, on May 16 -- was instead sentenced to 300 hours community work. The tragedy occurred when Adams was in the lounge of the family's Hukerenui home, 30km north of Whangarei, trying out a rifle he had bought on behalf of his mother as a wedding... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
'Tragic Fluke' as New Zealand Son Kills Father With Rifle Given as Present
Northern Advocate (Whangarei)
16 August 2006
A 17-year-old boy has admitted killing his father with a rifle in what his lawyer called a "one in a million" accident. Brian Adams, 46, died on May 16 from a gunshot wound to the head on his farm in Mine Rd, Hukerenui, 30km north of Whangarei. His son Colin yesterday pleaded guilty in the Whangarei District Court to causing his father's death by carelessly using a bolt-action rifle. Judge Thomas Everitt remanded him on... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand Man Shot in Firearm Dealership 'Wanted Gun for Suicide'
Dominion Post (Wellington)
1 August 2006
A man shot in the stomach during an alleged Auckland gun store robbery has told police he wanted a firearm so he could kill himself. Ricky Beckham, 29, was charged yesterday with assaulting gun store worker Greg Carvell with the intent to rob Small Arms International in Penrose last Thursday. Mr Carvell, 33, shot Beckham in the stomach at close range with a handgun. Details about the case emerged at an Auckland District... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Wounded New Zealand Gun Shop Attacker 'Wanted to Die' After Break-up
New Zealand Herald
1 August 2006
The machete-wielding man who was shot while trying to rob an Auckland gunstore allegedly wanted to kill himself following a domestic dispute. The Herald has been told Ricky James Beckham was in a "real state" after breaking up with his girlfriend last Wednesday night. The next morning he was shot in the stomach while trying to rob the Small Arms International gunstore. In the Auckland District Court yesterday it emerged... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Gun Shop Owner Demands Police Charge Man Shot by His Son
New Zealand Herald
31 July 2006
The father of a gunshop owner who shot a machete-wielding man wants to know why police have not yet charged the injured assailant. Ray Carvell said police investigating the shooting by his son Greg on Thursday had repeatedly questioned his family but had not yet spoken to the man, named as Ricky Beckham, 29, who is under police guard in hospital. "[The injured man] is lying in the lap of luxury. He's ruined our lives and... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Man With Machete Shot in New Zealand Gun Shop
New Zealand Press Association
27 July 2006
A man who took a machete into a South Auckland gun shop today is in hospital, after he was shot in the stomach The man was thought to have been shot by someone in the shop about 10am. Police spokeswoman, Noreen Hegarty said details of the shooting were still vague and she could not say what "the precursor to him being shot was." "It would be reasonable to question why he went into the shop with a machete." ... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand Gun Shop Owner Says Son Shot Man 'In Self Defence'
New Zealand Herald
27 July 2006
A distraught gun dealer says his son acted in self defence when a machete wielding man burst into his south Auckland gun shop today. Ray Carvell said his son Greg, 33, a director of the Small Arms International gun shop in Great South Road, Penrose, had no choice when he loaded a handgun and shot the man in the stomach. "He was told to stop. He kept coming at him and he was in fear of his life," Mr Carvell, the managing... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Owner Questioned After Shooting Man in New Zealand Gun Shop
New Zealand Herald
27 July 2006
Police were today questioning the director of an Auckland gun shop where a man wielding a machete was shot this morning. The shooting happened at SAI Guns and Ammo in Penrose at about 10am. A 19-year-old man entered the shop at 553 Great South Road, on the corner with Walls Road, carrying the machete. One of the people inside shot him in the stomach with a handgun. This is understood to be a director of the shop, aged 33.... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand Maori Activist Convicted for 'Ceremonial' Misuse of Gun
StuffNZ / NZPA
6 July 2006
Maori activist Tame Iti says he will appeal his convictions for being unlawfully in possession of a firearm. Iti, of the Tuhoe iwi, said he would appeal on the grounds that Crown law did not stretch to the ceremonial area in front of a marae's wharenui. Neither of two police officers present on the day he discharged a firearm near the confiscation line on Ruatoki's Reid Road and at Tauarau marae had thought his actions... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand, United Nations
New Zealand Delegation to UN 'Strongly Supports' Arms Trade Treaty
United Press International
3 July 2006
WASHINGTON -- New Zealand is sending a delegation to New York this week to "strongly support" an arms trade treaty under discussion at the United Nations. Newire.co.nz reported on June 27 that Phil Alpers was leading the New Zealand contingent -- which will assist in presenting the "Million Faces" petition to U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan -- to the discussions, which opened Monday. Alpers helped found the 700-member International... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand, Fiji
UN Small Arms Treaty Could Help Pacific Peace, Says NZ Minister
Radio New Zealand
27 June 2006
New Zealand Disarmament Minister, Phil Goff, says international efforts to curb trading in small arms will complement New Zealand peacekeeping missions in Pacific trouble spots. An United Nations conference underway in New York is reviewing progress on plans developed in 2001 to stem the illegal arms trade. It has also seen a push from anti-gun campaigners for a Small Arms Treaty. Mr Goff says placing importance on the... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand 'Strongly Supports' Arms Trade Treaty, UN Process
New Zealand Herald
26 June 2006
Aucklander Phil Alpers will lead a New Zealand delegation in New York this week to "strongly support" an arms trade treaty being discussed at a United Nations conference. When the conference opens today Mr Alpers -- a foundation member of a 700-strong network called the International Action Network for Small Arms -- will help present a petition to UN Secretary General Kofi Annan. Called the Million Faces petition, it consists... ( gunpolicy.org )
United Nations, New Zealand
UN Seeks End to Illicit Weapons Trade: NZ at Arms Meeting
Otago Daily Times (Dunedin)
26 June 2006
A three-strong New Zealand team has joined delegates for the United Nations Small Arms Conference, which began in New York yesterday. Philip Alpers said the delegation was authorised by Defence Minister Phil Goff to strongly oppose the illicit trade in small arms. There are more than 600 million small arms and light weapons across the globe, including handguns, assault rifles, grenades and anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles.... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand, Pacific
At Least in the Pacific, Removing Guns is Seen to Save Lives
New Zealand Herald, Opinion
19 June 2006
Although the families of New Zealanders flying off to East Timor are surely right to be concerned for their safety, a unique regional characteristic could save more lives than we will ever know. The top priority in the trouble spot was quickly stated by the first Australian military commander to arrive: "We will be disarming everybody in Dili. The only people in Dili carrying weapons will be the international forces." New Zealand... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand, World
1000 Crosses Protest Global Gun Trade on New Zealand Parliament Lawn
Dominion Post (Wellington)
16 June 2006
Paraparaumu GP Alison Payne sat amid a sea of red crosses, staked into Parliament lawns yesterday, to symbolise the 1000 people shot dead by small arms every day [Photo]. "The killing is inexcusable," she said. "The scene reminds me of Normandy, where there were fields and fields of white crosses marking all the people who died in the war." Dr Payne took part in yesterday's protest in Wellington organised by Amnesty International,... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand Pledges Support for an Arms Trade Treaty
New Zealand Parliament, Questions for Oral Answer, Speech
15 June 2006
DIANNE YATES (Labour) to the Minister for Disarmament and Arms Control: What is the Government's response, if any, to the Million Faces petition delivered to him today by Amnesty International, Oxfam, and the International Action Network on Small Arms, which calls for New Zealand support for a draft arms trade treaty? Hon PHIL GOFF (Minister for Disarmament and Arms Control): I had the privilege this afternoon to receive that petition,... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
In New Zealand, 1000 'Control Arms' Red Crosses to Fill Parliament Lawn
Scoop Independent News, Media release
9 June 2006
Every year, throughout the world, roughly half a million men, women, and children are killed by armed violence -- that's one person every minute. Together with international celebrities and activists Nicolas Cage, Joseph Fiennes, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Mary Robinson and Arundhati Roy over 12,000 New Zealanders have joined one million people calling for an international treaty on small arms trade by lending their faces to the Control... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Son Charged With Father's Death After Careless Use of Gun
New Zealand Press Association
19 May 2006
A 17-year-old is charged with causing his father's death by carelessly using a firearm in Northland on Tuesday. Brian Adams, 46, died from a gunshot wound to the head outside his farm on Mine Rd, Hukerenui, 30km from Whangarei. His son Colin appeared in Whangarei District Court on Wednesday charged with causing his father's death by carelessly using a bolt-action rifle. He was released on bail to reappear again... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Deer Hunter Shot Friend, Evades Jail: Fatal Shooting Case 'A Warning'
TVNZ ONE News (New Zealand)
11 May 2006
A not guilty verdict in the case of a man who shot dead his hunting companion has prompted a warning that anyone could make the same mistake. A jury in the Rotorua District Court has found Bernard Lee not guilty of carelessly using a firearm causing the death of William Gillies. John Howat, the chair of the Council of Licensed Firearms Owners, says the case is a reminder that the brain and the eyes don't always see the... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Defence Force Inquiry After Man Found With Mine Parts, Military Ammo
Radio New Zealand
13 April 2006
The Defence Force is carrying out a full review of its procedures with weapons and ammunition, after a weapons cache was uncovered in Christchurch. A man appeared in Christchurch District Court yesterday charged with possession of an explosive, after police searched his Hoon Hay property. He has been remanded in custody to reappear in court next week. Lieutenant Colonel Mike Shatford says the Defence Force would... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
In Standoff, NZ Military, Police Defuse 'Biggest Private Weapons Stockpile'
New Zealand Herald / NZPA
13 April 2006
The Defence Force is checking its weapon and ammunition stocks after police found an arsenal of bombs and weapons during a stand-off with a man at a suburban Christchurch house yesterday. Kenneth Daniel Hawkins, 38, appeared in Christchurch District Court yesterday on a single charge of illegal possession of a hand grenade but the court was told further charges were likely. Judge Brian Callaghan rejected his bid for bail.... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand, World
UN Gun Conference Approaches: Control Arms 'Lord of War' Preview
Bay of Plenty Times (Tauranga), Editorial
26 March 2006
Did you know that there are enough guns in the world that one in every 12 of us could have one? That horrifying statistic was one of the opening lines delivered by Nicolas Cage in his new movie Lord of War. Amnesty International's Tauranga branch were kind enough to invite my wife and I along to a special preview showing this week. The movie about an international arms dealer comes at a time when Amnesty is lobbying... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
One Gun for Every Four People, But NZ Has Remarkable Safety Record
Press (Christchurch)
25 February 2006
Moving softly, silently brushing leaves aside, a hunter deep in the Kaimanawa Forest spots the deer he has been waiting for. He moves into position and lines up his prey. Carefully focused, he takes aim, his finger tightens on the trigger and he fires. The bullet enters the target's head at great speed and exits the other side -- killing it instantly. Unknown to the shooter, the victim is no deer. Taupo father... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
NZ Police Come Under Fire for Spending on Gun Seminar
New Zealand Herald
23 February 2006
Police chiefs yesterday confirmed $20,000 was approved to fund "the travel and participation costs of keynote speakers" at a controversial gun safety seminar. Seminar organiser Inspector Joe Green said some judicious spending by police ensured 20 speakers -- including seven international guests -- could be paid for from the $20,000. Green Party police spokesman Keith Locke had criticised the Government over the choice of... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Tougher Firearm Laws 'Very Successful,' Says NZ Gun Lobby Boss
NewsTalk ZB / NZ Radio Network
23 February 2006
A controversial law introduced 14 years ago, is being credited for bringing about a drop in the rate of suicides from shootings. New research conducted by the Christchurch School of Medicine, shows the number of shooting suicides has almost halved since an amendment to the Arms Act in 1992. The new Act brought in tougher criteria for firearms owners, including tighter security and revetting of gun licence holders. ... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Youth Gun Suicide Drops 66% Following Recent Gun Control Laws, Says Study
New Zealand Herald / NZPA
23 February 2006
Stricter legislation on firearms licensing has led to a significant drop in suicides using guns, new research shows. Since changes to New Zealand laws controlling gun licensing in 1992, the annual rate of firearm-related suicide had dropped 46 per cent. The research, by the Christchurch School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Otago, was funded by the Health Research Council. Suicide researcher Associate... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Convenors Say NZ Gun Safety Conference Not Forum for Pro-Gun Lobby
Radio New Zealand
22 February 2006
The convener of the Mountain Safety Council's firearms committee has rubbished claims a gun safety conference underway in Christchurch is a forum for pro-gun lobbyists. The conference is being co-hosted by the police. Green Party MP Keith Locke says five keynote speakers at the conference are prominent pro-gun lobbyists and has questioned how giving them a platform for their hardline views promotes safety. But Jack McConchie... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Foreign Gun Lobbyists Infiltrating Police 'Safety' Seminar, Says MP
New Zealand Herald
22 February 2006
Police Minister Annette King has defended a gun-safety conference against claims that it had been infiltrated by the pro-gun lobby. Ms King was last night to open the three-day seminar in Christchurch, which features guest speakers from around the world. But Green MP Keith Locke -- the party's police spokesman -- criticised the choice of speakers at the event, which he said included five anti-gun-control lobbyists. ... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Greens Target NZ Police Conference Loaded With Pro-gun Speakers
Radio New Zealand / Morning Report
22 February 2006
Police Minister Annette King is denying accusations that a conference on firearms safety co-hosted by the police, is a stalking horse for pro-gun lobbyists. Ms King opened the seminar in Christchurch last night. The Green Party claims it is a guise to allow a large contingent of pro-gun lobbyists to push their views in New Zealand. Green MP, Keith Locke, says the line-up is unusual for what is supposed to be a... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
New Zealand Police 'Gun Safety' Conference Under Fire from Greens
TVNZ News (New Zealand)
22 February 2006
New Zealand Police are facing criticism for their involvement in an international conference on gun safety. The Green Party claims the conference is a guise to allow a large contingent of pro-gun lobbyists to push their views in New Zealand. Green MP Keith Locke says at least five of the keynote international speakers have publicly argued against restrictions on the use of firearms and represent firearm manufacturers or... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Tighter Gun Laws Had 'Dramatic Impact' on NZ Gun Suicide Rate, Says Study
Radio New Zealand / Checkpoint
22 February 2006
Tighter gun laws in New Zealand have had a dramatic impact on the number of people who kill themselves with a firearm, with a 40 percent drop in this form of suicide. Prior to changes in 1992, guns were used in 20 percent of suicides. That figure is now around 8 percent, compared to 60 percent in the United States. The New Zealand gun laws are now the envy of American suicide prevention workers. Dr Annette Beautrais,... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Greens Protest US, Canadian Pro-gun Lobbyists in NZ Police Seminar
NZ Press Association
21 February 2006
Green MP Keith Locke is calling on police to explain why several controversial anti-gun control lobbyists will speak at a police-organised gun-safety conference. Police Minister Annette King was to open the conference, named In the Right Hands, in Christchurch last night. It is jointly organised by the Mountain Safety Council and the New Zealand Council of Licensed Firearms Owners. Mr Locke said five prominent... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Police Firearm Licensing Campaign 'Going Smoothly'
New Zealand Press Association
28 September 2005
The police campaign to ensure firearms licences are renewed or surrendered is well underway. And police are warning that they see the following up of an expired licence as an enforcement issue. Inspector Joe Green, firearms licensing and vetting manager, said it was 12 years since the 10-year firearm licence started in 1993, and police were two years into the renewal period. "There are about 225,000 current licence-holders... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Police Find Firearm Collector's Stolen Machine Guns, Assault Rifles
New Zealand Press Association
22 September 2005
Hastings police have recovered a large number of firearms, including military-style semi-automatic assault rifles, sub-machine guns, pistols and ammunition -- some of which were stolen during a violent home invasion last month. The weapons were found when the police Clan Lab team searched two sheds in Hastings yesterday. On August 6, Napier weapons collector Alan Walker was allegedly assaulted, bound with a telephone cable... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Police Cite 'UN Convention' in Decision to Destroy Rifles
New Zealand Herald
24 August 2005
Police will destroy $200,000 worth of firearms when they upgrade to semi-automatics because of a UN convention designed to prevent the illicit trade of weapons. During the next 12 months police will spend $3 million replacing 880 Remington rifles with semi-automatics. NZ First MP Ron Mark, and the Sporting Shooters Association have criticised the decision to destroy the Remingtons, saying it's a "politically correct move"... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Collector Loses 100 Guns to Robbers, Police
Hawke's Bay Today
13 August 2005
Just days after Ahuriri man Alan Walker was assaulted, bound, threatened with a knife and forced to hand over part of his gun collection to home invaders, he has become a victim once again. Now he has lost his whole collection, which numbers more than 100 legally held firearms and which took more than 40 years to assemble. This time, however, it was not gang members wanting to strip him of his collection, it was the police.... ( gunpolicy.org )
New Zealand
Real Threat Not Guns But Crims
Hawke's Bay Today, Editorial
10 August 2005
In the wake of the theft of 30 to 40 rifles and handguns from the Napier home of a collector, calls have been made for greater security measures for firearms. And it is a point worthy of debate, as the thought of all that potential firepower being available to criminals isn't pleasant. While gun-owners are compelled to have extensive security measures to prevent their weapons being stolen, Saturday's theft in Napier shows... ( gunpolicy.org )
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